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Decoding Governance for GS Mains BY S K Mishra, IAS ( retd)Governance is very significant part of General studies paper II. Candidates are expected to know the general

functioning of Central Government, state governments as well as urban and rural local bodies. They have to

understand that there is an organic linkage between union, state and local governments. They have to know the

power, functions and limitations of legislature, executive and judiciary. General elections, both for union and state

legislatives are now a regular phenomenon. Though constitution has created an independent Election Commission,

yet the power to regulate the election has been vested in union parliament which has made R.P Act 1950 and 1951.

Candidates are expected to be aware about provision of these laws. Emphasis has also been given on

constitutional, regulatory and quasi­judicial bodies. In recent past there had been various controversies, which

candidates are supposed to be aware. Various policies and programme especially relating to vulnerable section of

society has been emphasized. Since these schemes are in existence for quite some time, hence candidates are

expected to analyze them critically. RTI, e­governance, citizen charter are citizen­centric steps needs a deeper

analysis including the success area and failures. India is a democratic country; however role of Civil Servants

especially in 21st Century is very significant. This aspect requires a deeper analysis. A cursory look to 2013 mains

paper will reveal that most of the questions were opinion based. While answering these question, no doubt facts will

be important, however the good answer requires critical analysis including offering a rational personal opinion. This

is obvious as the new entrants will be required to handle these issues in the days to come. Since no authentic book

has come in to market, the candidates are advised to rely on newspapers, Yojna, kurukshetra, India year book and

sits of different ministries including Planning Commission.

The marking pattern had been very poor, and those who aspire to exceed 100 will have to read properly and develop

a good understanding of governance.